An **anorectal malformation** (ARM) or imperforate anus is a congenital birth defect where the anus and rectum do not develop properly. In this condition, the anal opening is absent, misplaced, or too narrow. Frequently, the rectum connects to other pelvic organs (like the bladder, urethra, or vagina) via a fistula, preventing normal bowel function.
ARM develops early in pregnancy (between the 5th and 12th weeks) when the hindgut is dividing. Key factors include:
Parents or pediatricians will observe these signs immediately after birth:
Surgical approach through the perineum to expose the pelvic muscles, separate any fistula, and place the rectum inside the sphincter.
A temporary staged procedure in newborns with high defects, diverting stool to a bag to allow safe healing of the pelvic region.
Advanced keyhole surgery for high rectal anomalies, guiding the bowel down with camera precision and minimal tissue trauma.
Performed at birth for high defects. For low defects, a primary anoplasty is performed instead.
Performed at 2-6 months of age (PSARP or LAARP) to reconstruct the anus inside the muscle complex and close any urinary fistula.
Weekly dilation of the new anus is performed at home to prevent narrowing, followed by colostomy closure in 2 months.
"Our baby boy was born without an anal opening. Dr. Sujit performed a staged reconstruction (PSARP). Today, our son has normal bowel control and is doing great."
"We are so grateful to Dr. Chowdhary for performing the pull-through surgery for our daughter's cloaca. His bowel management program has been a lifesaver."
"The care and guidance we received for anal dilation and post-surgery care were excellent. Dr. Sujit is extremely patient and caring."
"The nursing staff and Dr. Sujit are a fantastic team. They handled our infant's surgery with so much care and warmth."
"We traveled from another city just for Dr. Chowdhary. His approach is very scientific and caring."
Congenital absence of an anal opening requires precise micro-reconstruction to achieve continence and bowel control.
It is a congenital birth defect where the anus and rectum do not develop properly, preventing normal bowel movements.
Yes, temporary colostomy or primary reconstruction is performed within the first 24 to 48 hours of life to allow stool passage.
Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty (PSARP) is the definitive surgical procedure to reconstruct the anus and place the rectum inside the muscle complex.
Most children with low-type malformations achieve excellent bowel control, while high-type malformations may require long-term bowel management program support.
It is a temporary diversion where the bowel is brought to the abdominal wall to pass stool into a bag, protecting the surgical site during healing.
Typically, the colostomy is reversed 2 to 3 months after the main PSARP reconstruction has healed.
Children are monitored closely for constipation, and a high-fiber diet, adequate fluid intake, or laxatives may be recommended.
Specialized reconstructive surgery offers the best outcomes for anorectal malformation. Schedule a consultation today.
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